Automotive Key Repair - What to Do When Your Car Key Won't Turn in the Ignition

We've all been there: the car key won't engage the ignition. It can occur at the worst time, such as when you're loading your trunk with groceries or heading home from work.

There are many different solutions that will help you get back on your way. Here are a few common automotive key repair problems and solutions for them:

Broken or bent key

The most common reason why an owner of a car cannot begin their vehicle is a bent key. This can be repaired by simply straightening the key. This may sound simple but it's important to do it with care. The key is extremely thin, and bending it even one degree can cause it to break.

To do this, you'll need an area that is stable, as well as pliers. Take one end of the key with the pliers and bend it until it is straight. It is recommended to do this on an even surface or in a vice. Then, you can place it inside the lock to test if it will turn.

If not, you may need to get a new one made. This will avoid needing to contact a locksmith and can ensure that your key will work.

It's a good idea to keep a spare key in your pocket so that you don't find yourself without an entry point into your vehicle in the event of a damaged key.

If you are experiencing issues with a broken or bent key, you can try applying lubrication on it before trying to insert it into the lock. This will make it easier to move through the cylinder, and prevent it from becoming stuck. Spray graphite or lubricant. Make use of the plastic tube that comes with the spray for the most precise application. This will also help stop moisture from ruining your key.

Stuck pins or springs

Sometimes a pin (also called a roll pin) or spring can get stuck. A pin is a small piece of steel that measures between 5.1 and 7.6 cm (2.5-3.0 in) long, with hollow ends. It is used to connect two pieces of machines. In the majority of cases, you can remove a nut by pulling it out using your fingers or the wrench.

If you own an older car that is equipped with a microchip key it is possible that the key needs to be programmed to work with your vehicle. This can be a simple or difficult depending on the car's manufacturer and model.

If you need assistance with your keys for your vehicle or locks, give us a call! We can repair, replace or program virtually any car key.

Gear Selector

If your car key repair shop near me's gear selector gets stuck in park mode, it's important to get it checked by a mechanic as soon as you notice it. It's a safety concern and could cause serious damage to your vehicle if continue to drive it. This can also be a sign of more serious issues with the transmission itself, which could be expensive to fix.

Fortunately, the majority of the time this problem can be easily fixed. The most frequent reason the gear selector may get stuck is that one of the cable ends has snapped, or become uncoupled from the lever itself. The mechanic can repair this in a few minutes.

In some instances, the bushing of the gear selector may be damaged or worn. Rubber covers are placed around the articulation points of the gear system in order to ensure that it is fluid. These covers work similarly to cartilage joints, and therefore must be flexible and healthy.

It's not unusual for them to wear out in time, but there are some ways to extend their life. First, you should stay clear of using the gear selector in very cold temperatures. This is because the gear control cables are often prone to freezing and cracking. You should also replace the bushings using premium quality ones, like those from First Line.

These bushings are an important component of your gear selector and automotive key Repair shouldn't be overlooked. If you notice that yours is damaged it is best to visit an auto repair shop that is specialized in Land Rover repairs. They can assist you in finding the right parts to restore your gear selection apparatus. They also offer various other services such as transmission maintenance and service.

Dead battery

If you turn the ignition key and hear nothing but a click, then your battery is dead. The average battery lasts between three and five years and as they age they go through natural processes that cause them to end up dying prematurely. The negative plates of your car battery will start to be coated with sulfate crystals.

A dead battery could cause your car to lose power, which can cause the radio to stop working or electric window becoming unresponsive. If your car has been having problems starting in cold weather, it is a good sign that it's time for a new battery.

Sometimes, the issue may not be a dead battery, but a problem with the charging system of your vehicle. This problem can be resolved by having your mechanic check that the alternator, serpentine belt and battery cables are all functioning correctly.

A key fob that's not working properly is another common problem for automotive key repair. The key fob is a tiny device that connects to the vehicle's computer and relays signals and commands between the engine and accessory systems. This system can become confused or stop communicating if it becomes submerged or is exposed to extreme temperatures.

Follow the steps in your owner's guide to reset the lost keyfob. Depending on the type of vehicle it could involve opening and closing the doors, turning off lights and Automotive Key Repair other electronic devices on and off or pressing a certain sequence of buttons. If this does not fix your device, it could need to professionally programmed which will require the services of an expert. It's worth trying these simple techniques before buying an entirely new fob.

Ignition socket

Modern car keys come with a transponder chip embedded in them that transmits a signal to a receiver in the ignition when it is inserted. This signal tells the immobilizer inside the car if the key is the correct one for it to start. In the 1990s, car theft was a major issue. Many manufacturers put in this transponder system to ensure security and where to repair Car key Remote insurance reasons.

If you own a newer vehicle, the only way to change your keys is to visit the dealership or directly with the manufacturer. Before you go there, write down the VIN number of your vehicle (vehicle identification number). This number is usually found on the dashboard's front, door jamb, or in the owner's manual.

Bring your current working key along to an AutoZone store, and an associate will utilize a machine to trace the contours of your blank key to accurately replicate the original key. The new key will be cut on site with a precise cutting machine. If the key you are using has blade, fob or a large grey/black head it will need to be programmed for your vehicle before you can start the motor.